Southern Vectis is working with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary and Street Pastors to create a late night Safe Space at Newport Bus Station.
The pilot, which will see pastors and police officers in the Southern Vectis travel shop on certain Friday and Saturday evenings, is designed to bolster the confidence of those travelling around the town between 9pm and 1.15am.
“We work hard to ensure our passengers feel safe and secure, no matter what time of the day or night they travel with us,” said Richard Tyldsley, Southern Vectis general manager.
“This new pilot takes this a step further and follows consultation with both the police and Street Pastors.
"It provides people who are out-and-about in Newport town centre late at night - not just those travelling with Southern Vectis - with a Safe Space where they can seek assistance should they need it.
“We’re pleased to be offering our travel shop as a base for this important local resource.”
PC Ben Grindrod, from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Violent Crime Task force, added:
“Southern Vectis and the Street Pastors have worked incredibly hard to make Newport a safer place for the public, with their efforts leading to the creation of this Safe Space.
“Everyone has the right to enjoy themselves safely and comfortably. Being on a night out and having a few drinks does not excuse criminal behaviour, and we will deal robustly with anyone whose behaviour falls below the standard we expect.
“Officers will be conducting patrols in the evenings, and will be able assist with any concerns - or direct people to the Safe Space if needed. Ultimately this Safe Space is exactly what it says on the tin - a place of safety for anyone who feels vulnerable or unsafe on a night out. "
Street Pastors is a group of volunteers from different churches across Newport who go out into the town centre on Friday and Saturday nights to listen to, care, and help those in need, without discrimination.
The pilot will be in operation at Southern Vectis travel shop between 9pm and 1.15am on the following dates:
Friday 16 August
Saturday 24 August
Friday 20 September
Saturday 28 September
For more information about Southern Vectis, please visit islandbuses.info.uk
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